Chair Movement Classes online with Larissa

Date: 22 February, 2025

Time: 12:30 pm - 1:00 pm

Address: Online via Zoom

E: larissamdm26@gmail.com

P: 0438 098 999

Chair movement therapy through dance offers a range of benefits for both physical and mental well-being. Here are some key advantages:

Improved Physical Health: Chair dance can help improve mobility, flexibility, and strength, especially for individuals with limited mobility. It can also aid in better posture and balance1.

Enhanced Mental Health: Engaging in dance movement therapy can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. It provides an outlet for emotional expression and can improve overall mood2.

Social Connection: Participating in group dance sessions fosters a sense of community and social interaction, which is particularly beneficial for older adults or those in residential care.

Cognitive Benefits: Dance therapy can enhance cognitive functions such as memory and attention. It encourages creative thinking and problem-solving skills2.

Emotional Expression: Dance allows individuals to express their emotions non-verbally, which can be therapeutic for those who find it difficult to articulate their feelings verbally.

Fun and Enjoyment: Dance is inherently enjoyable and can provide a sense of joy and accomplishment, contributing to an overall sense of well-being

Your class tutor, Larissa McKinnon is an accomplished dancer whose extensive training and professional experience underscore her exceptional qualifications in the field of dance education. Having honed her craft at the esteemed Victorian College of the Arts Secondary School – School of Dance, covering Years 7 to 12, Larissa possesses a robust foundation that is complemented by her status as a Senior Associate at the Australian Ballet School.

In addition to this, Larissa holds a Diploma in Dance Teaching and Management, as well as a Diploma in Dance Teaching Studies from the prestigious Royal Academy of Dance. Her career with the Australian Ballet spanned from 2004 to 2018, during which she ascended through various roles, including positions as Executive to Artistic Director and Artistic Coordinator.

Beyond her performance background, Larissa has dedicated herself to nurturing future generations of dancers through teaching at renowned institutions such as Melbourne Acrobatic/Dance Studio and South Eastern Allstars Cheer and Dance, and now she seeks to  offer chair movement therapy through dance through free monthly online classes made possible through the federally funded My Active Life program. Her wealth of knowledge and practical experience provides participants with invaluable insights into both the art form itself and the broader dance industry.